Norton 450 Urban | Coming Soon

Norton 450 Urban – the highlights

We’ll get to the looks but first let’s see what’s under the distinctive skin. Details are scant at the moment but we know it’s got a new, liquid-cooled 454cc single nudging right up against the 47 horsepower A2 limit. This and the 180kg kerbweight should make it among the fastest bikes on a restricted licence, though Norton’s claim of a “unique-in-class” aluminium frame might raise eyebrows at Aprilia, whose Tuono 457 features similar and, likewise, pushes the limits of power to weight on an A2 bike.

Like the other new Nortons, tech and spec looks impressive, with an IMU driving cornering ABS, traction and cruise control, a huge touch-screen display and promise of full smartphone connectivity. The KYB forks are fully adjustable, the shock at the back offering variable preload and rebound.

Norton 450 Urban – the looks

The Norton 450 Urban’s styling is likely to be the big talking point, and certainly marks it out in an already crowded class running the whole spectrum from classics and retros to modern nakeds and junior sports bikes.

We’ve talked previously about the influence of ex-Jaguar Land Rover creative head Gerry McGovern, who has since left JLR and seemingly become a bigger presence in neighbouring Norton’s design studio. Those familiar with his automotive work on Land Rover and Range Rover products will see similarities in his ‘reductionist’ philosophy, the Urban concealing its oily bits between sharp-fitting panels and contrast bodywork.

Two versions will be available – a more minimalist option with silver wheels and frame and a tougher-looking option with dark grey colouring, longer mudguards, hand protection and a pseudo adventure bike vibe.

Norton 450 Urban – how much and when?

At the time of writing we’re waiting on a price but while clearly aimed at younger (or at least urban dwelling) riders and launching into a cost-conscious corner of the market Norton makes pains to say the Urban isn’t an entry-level bike in the wider sense, more just a first rung onto the ladder of its new and expanded range.

In a class already packed with talented and compelling bikes ranging from Triumph’s formidable single-cylinder modern classics, Royal-Enfield retros and more recent entrants from Harley-Davidson and Moto Guzzi Norton is going to have to fight to make its presence felt. On looks alone it looks ready for it!